For decades now, treadmills have endured as Americans' favorite indoor fitness equipment. Although many folks would not consider themselves to be true die-hard runners, we return to the good ol' treadmill to keep us fit. Here are some reasons why people rely on treadmills for their fitness, more than any other fitness equipment.

User-friendly.

Treadmills have a simpler design than their newer counterparts. Users can get on them and start to exercise immediately. No technical skills are needed to exercise on a treadmill. They can walk or run: they just do what comes naturally to them.

Ease of Use is critical in a gym setting, where many new members are intimidated by machines, equipment, and the process itself of working out. If it looks simple to use, then they find that it is simple to use, then they will return to it.

Retention.

Ease of Use enhances retention. It encourages client retention in gyms. And it contributes to retention in exercise programs, in general. If it's easy, people are more likely to stick to it. They will return to the gym more often.

Ease of Use also applies to the home treadmill user. They are more likely to stick to their home exercise programs.

At home, the trusty treadmill welcomes the user to just hop on. You can 'take it for a spin' easier than any other equipment. No seat adjustment, electronic settings, or special clothes are needed for a short walk.

If you keep the treadmill in an accessible place, you can get plenty of 'incidental exercise' because you are frequently exposed to it. If you create a comfortable atmosphere around it, with a TV or stereo or scenic view, you will also be enticed to use it more frequently.

Low maintenance.

A simpler design makes them easier to maintain and to fix. In gyms, they get the most use of any machine, but need the least upkeep. For home use, treadmills may need minimal attention. A regular tune-up and an occasional belt change (for high-mileage users) are all that's needed.

The simple, inviting, treadmill encourages exercise naturally and keeps us exercising.

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